Researchers

A researcher is someone who works under Directive 2005/71/EC or Directive (EU) 2016/801 either as a:

• Paid researcher
• PhD student, or
• Unpaid researcher with a grant

This person will conduct research at a research institution in the Netherlands which is a recognised sponsor by the IND. Recognised employers are listed in the Public Register of Recognised Sponsors.

A researcher will:

• hold an appropriate higher education degree which gives access to a doctorate programme. The research institution determines if the degree is appropriate. The degree must be certified by a notary or municipality (in the Netherlands or abroad). If a researcher does not have an appropriate higher education degree, the research institution must declare the researcher has demonstrated that they possess the correct level of education.
• have an institutionally-approved research project. The research institution must assess the purpose and duration of the research, and the funds required for conducting this research.
• have an employment contract or hosting agreement with a research institution.
• earn sufficient income. If the researcher will not be paid by the research institute, they must receive income from another source, for example a grant or sponsor payments, or have sufficient funds in a bank account for the duration of their stay in the Netherlands.

For more information, please visit the IND website.